As the Europa League returns clutching headlines in the process, we take a closer look at the most involved player on the pitch - the 2017/18 match ball.

Landing in countries across the continent, the 2017/18 match ball is built on the same dynamic foundations where last season's left off. Adidas, having found a winning formula for the match ball, have introduced a graphical change across the ball. Predominantly white, it features blazing and firesome tones across the panels. The Europa League trophy sits at the heart of the core graphics and gravitating outwards, the European map spreads across the ball while surrounded with a sound wave aesthetic.

A gun-metal silver is joined with a striking use of red and orange and as the balls spins. A head turner that is washed in detail, it's another simple yet styled aesthetic from adidas and will travel well from the group stages to those all important knock-out rounds. Always a competition that provides plenty of entertainment, it's one that Arsenal will be looking to go in search of among many other big teams as a gateway to the promised land of the Champions League.

The 2017/18 UEFA Europa League ball is available from prodirectsoccer.com now.